CB2 Magazine: December 2021 by CH2/ CB2 : Celebrate Hilton Head / Celebrate Bluffton

CB2 CELEBRATE I BLUFFTON AND BEYOND!

C2 GIFT GUIDE FOR THE LADIES CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS

DECEMBER 2021

BARRY’S THOUGHTFUL, CONSIDERATE MAN’S GUIDE TO GIFT GIVING

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CB2 SPECIAL SECTION

NEW BUSINESS ROUND-UP

MERRY & BRIGHT

THE FACES OF HOLIDAY CHEER

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20 MERRY & BRIGHT These local events and people are spreading Christmas cheer in the Lowcountry.

WHAT’S INSIDE

CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS

LOCAL LOOKS THAT WON'T BREAK THE BANK

C2 GIFT GUIDE FOR THE LADIES

THE THOUGHTFUL, CONSIDERATE MAN’S GUIDE TO GIFT GIVING

BUDGET BLINDS HILTON HEAD: WINDOW COVERINGS TO EMBELLISH AND PROTECT YOUR HOME

C2'S 2021 NEW BUSINESS ROUND-UP

CHALLENGE YOUR BODY, CHANGE YOUR LIFE: PILATES HILTON HEAD INVITES YOU TO EXPERIENCE A POWERFUL, FULL- BODY SYSTEM OF EXERCISE TO LOOK AND FEEL YOUR BEST.

THE NEXT STEP FOR PREP: NEW PROGRAMS ADD TO 56-YEAR LEGACY OF PREPARING STUDENTS FOR THE FUTURE AT HILTON HEAD PREP

The custom lifestyle builder that builds it right the first time

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33 FERENC BUKTA: THE PEOPLE’S CHEF From his childhood in Soviet Hungary to his adulthood in the kitchens of Hilton Head Island, the new chef at CQ’s brings a fresh perspective to the menu.

BUILT RIGHT HOMES

MUSICIANS IN BATHROOMS FEATURING JASON LAPORTE

O N O U R C OV E R S F R O M

HOLIDAY TRADITIONS

O U R

LOCAL LOOKS THAT WON’T BREAK THE BANK

F A M I LY

CB2 CELEBRATE I BLUFFTON AND BEYOND!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

CH2 CELEBRATE HILTON HEAD!

featuring:

C2 GIFT GUIDE FOR THE LADY

T O Y O U R S

C2 GIFT GUIDE FOR THE LADY CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS

DECEMBER 2021

plus

CH2 SPECIAL SECTION

NEW BUSINESS ROUND-UP

BARRY’S THOUGHTFUL, CONSIDERATE MAN’S GUIDE TO GIFT GIVING

plus

CB2 SPECIAL SECTION

NEW BUSINESS ROUND-UP

THE FACES OF LOWCOUNTRY HOLIDAYS DECEMBER 2021

ON THE CH2 COVER Happy Holidays from the CH2 Family!

ON THE CB2 COVER Matthew Tenwolde with Blue in Bluffton.

Photography by John Brackett

Photography by M.KAT.

CATCHING THE NEXT BIG THING It’s not just mouthwatering seafood— Slapfish represents a sea of change in seafood.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN BRACKETT

GENIUSES AT WORK Reindeer Nanny Maggie Marie Washo

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Ice Rink Hand-Holder Carolyn Hunter Kostylo Santa’s Accountant Marion Elizabeth Bowser Christmas Present Wrapper Kim Conrad Crouch The Happy Elf “Just Kandace” Wightman The Ghost of Christmas Past Morgan O'Banion Harrods Window Dresser Kaila Jeffcoat Reindeer Buoy Conrad Crouch Pritchard Father Christmas Jevon Daly North Pole Bodyguards Greta Von Bowser Vincent Von Bowser The Cut & Paste Crew Jeff Cline Catherine Davies Aspiring Novelists Cheryl Alexander Jesse Blanco Courtney Hampson Linda S. Hopkins Barry Kaufman John McCann Lisa Sulka Lighting Experts M. Kat Photography Krisztian Lonyai John Brackett Celia G. Photographie Find Us Here PO Box 22949 Hilton Head Island, SC 29925 843.689.2658 m.washo@celebratehiltonhead.com

EDITOR'S NOTE D E C E M B E R

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eather Rath recently commented to me that life goes by faster for people who work on monthly publications. I would say that is probably accurate. In preparation for this issue, our team has seen The Nutcracker, been to Hilton Head Prep’s Festival of Trees, had an interview with the Grand Marshall of the Bluffton Christmas parade and Mr. & Mrs. Claus, participated in a team holiday photo shoot and more. As I write this, it’s not even Thanksgiving, but it feels like January 1 is tomorrow. It seems that these few weeks between Halloween and New Year’s Eve are as frenzied as ever. Shopping to be done, extended families to entertain and holiday work functions to attend—all while handling everything we normally do on a weekly basis. I’m here to remind you to slow down and attempt to actually enjoy the moments this year. We put so much pressure on ourselves to make everything perfect, when in actuality, most of us would just like to BE with the people we care about. Hunter and I have been having a repeated conversation about being intentional with our words and actions. So many of us are running around with our noses stuck in our phones, missing out on what is happening in the room around us. So, in the event this isn’t already a thing in your family, how about instituting a “no phones” holiday this year? Who knows, you may even enjoy talking to your third cousin Steve about his passion for WrestleMania. (That one’s for you, Nick.) Every December we feature new businesses that have popped in our area over the last year or

SEASONS GREETINGS! so. Despite it being a very strange year, many locals have used the pandemic to reassess their lives and start new ventures. Others have just taken their businesses and moved them to the Lowcountry (because who wouldn’t want to live here?!). Read all about them, starting on page 75. It’s so nice to have both Courtney and Barry contributing again, although instead of arguing this month, they are writing about Christmas traditions and what to gift your family when the supply chains have messed up the regularly scheduled present delivery. Wishing you and yours a merry holiday season, filled with love and light! From all of us at CH2/CB2

MAGGIE WASHO

Be sure to follow us on Social Media

Publisher / Editor-in-Chief

Instagram - @ch2hhimag Facebook - facebook.com/ch2magazine TikTok - @ch2mag YouTube - youtube.com/celebratehiltonhead

These local events and people are spreading Christmas cheer in the Lowcountry

here isn’t a more festive time in the Lowcountry than right now. Immediately after Halloween, Hilton Head Island and Bluffton explode with festivals, parades and holiday happenings that are sure to melt even the coldest Grinch heart. On the following pages, we share a few of our favorite things to do this time of year and tip our hats to the people behind the festivities.

JeffHunt

DUN E S R E A L ESTAT E Giving away Christmas bikes to kids is kind of Jeff Hunt’s thing. He’s been doing it for almost 30 years now (15 years in Charlotte and 15 years in the Lowcountry). This year, that number of donated bicycles is 300, with 100 each going to Antioch Education Center, Deep Well and the Boys & Girls Club of Bluffton.

C2: How has this grown over the years? Jeff Hunt: I was just kind of doing it quietly for a while, and then one of my fellow real estate agents, Mark Lynch, found out and wanted to get involved. “These kids are going to need helmets, right?” he said. So, then it morphed into a “pass the hat” sort of event at the Dunes Real estate office, with everyone chipping in a bit. Now we get thousands of dollars donated towards the helmets, and the number of bikes we donate has gone from 100 to 300. It’s been amazing. I have a client who found out about it and sent me check for $500. What Mark kind of taught me with that was to ask for help. There are so many people who want to help and be involved. Kelly Sterling, Linda Warnock and the admin team put together a nice little piece on bike safety (in English and Spanish) to go with the bikes. 20

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C2: Why those specific charities? Jeff Hunt: The bulk of what you do for them gets used by the people who need it. That’s the biggest thing for me. We live on Hilton Head Island where the perception is everyone lives in a million dollar home and life is wonderful, but that’s just not the case. There is need here in every community. One teenage girl received one of our bikes and was able to use it as transportation to a job. She starts making a few bucks, saves enough to take some classes at USCB. She did so well, she got a scholarship, was able to take more classes and ended up graduating. And it all started with transportation to a job. Her family only had one car, so they couldn’t take her to work. It’s amazing the little things you can do for people that make a big difference.

C2: What is your favorite holiday movie Jeff? Jeff Hunt: The Polar Express. One year when my wife and I were still dating, they were showing it outside in Sea Pines, and we were the only two people watching because it was freezing. About 30 minutes later, there were probably 50 people there. Everyone saw us sitting there and decided to join. I have really great memories of that.

Sarah Perry & Lauren McAvoy B RA N C H ES IN TH E V I L L AG E AT WE XF O RD

C2: When did Branches first open, and has Christmas always been as big as an event for the girls as it is now? Branches opened in the summer of 1995; and, oh yes, the holiday season has always been a big bru-ha-ha for the Branches family! C2: How many wreaths are created for Christmas each year at Branches? Ohhh, trying to count that would be like trying to count the number of stars in the

sky. Or the number of scratches on our arms from designing & lugging holiday decor. Or the number of glasses of wine we drink to get through all the Christmas mania. Ha! C2: How many houses/retail areas are decorated by Branches … and what are some of the well-known ones? We’ve done a host of residential jobs in years past, but in recent years we’ve turned our attention to our corporate clients during

the holidays. We go all out with Hampton Lake, TidePointe, and of course at our “home-base” of The Village at Wexford. What are Sarah and Lauren’s favorite Christmas movies? Sarah: Toss up between Charlie Brown Christmas or The Grinch. Lauren: Miracle on 34th Street Basically, these cover all our emotions during the holiday season. ;) Is Christmas the favorite holiday for you? If not, which holidays do you like best? At Branches, Christmas and the winter holiday season is THE “Super Bowl” of our year; so, of course we’ve grown to look forward to it every year (and making it bigger and better)! Thanksgiving is also a fun time for our family as it’s a nice pause during our busy season. We love having fun in little ways at the shop for all the various holidays—even the silly internet ones that are fun to play along and celebrate! (National Wine Day, anyone?) Has Branches always been in the Village at Wexford … and if not, where were they first and when did they move? We moved to The Village at Wexford 15 years ago, but the shop was originally located in a little cottage off of Palmetto Bay Road. We still have lots of long-time clients after 26 years who remember our first little shop with lots of fun memories! Is the holiday open house always the first weekend in November? Is it two or three days of madness? Depends on several factors (the way the calendar falls, market trends, global health events and/or natural disasters that shan’t be named, etc.), but typically it’s in the early- to mid-part of November and lasts two days. However, the actual “madness” begins when we start getting in Christmas and holiday inventory in late summer. We’re secretly glad people are starting to get in the holiday spirit earlier lately because we’re certainly ready to GO by the first of November!

P HOTOG RA P HY BY M . KAT D E S I G N BY J E FF C L I N E

(L-R)Dawn Johnson, Leslie Hart, Laren Moskowitz, and Jessica Schmidt

Hilton Head Preparatory School’s

Festival of Trees T H E S O N E STA R E S OR T N OVE M BE R 19 – D EC E MB E R 4

ince 1985, the Festival of Trees has been a holiday tradition in the Lowcountry. Although its location has changed several times throughout its 30-plus-year run, the mission has stayed the same: to raise money for Hilton Head Prep’s Scholarship Fund. Over 165 items (festively decorated wreaths, Christmas trees, swag, and more) will be on display at the Sonesta Resort through December 4. The HHHP parent-run committee starts work on this event in August, and it takes a mountain of volunteers to get everything set up by the week before Thanksgiving. Hilton Head Prep purchases the trees, and different local businesses and organizations decorate them. During a two-week period, they are on display and available for purchase at the Sonesta Resort. It’s a beautiful community event and a lovely way to spend an evening out with a glass of wine or two, perusing everyone’s creativity. Stand-outs this year include a Toy Story-themed tree, a flock of flamingos pulling a pink Barbie car loaded with presents, and a Pickleball-themed fir. There are special evening appearances by carolers, Santa Claus, Hilton Head Prep’s Jazz band, St. Gregory’s choir and more as the weeks progress. If you’re interested in participating in this event next year by decorating a tree, reach out to Margot Brown at mbrown@hhprep.org.

Joe& Susan Patton

MR . & MR S . SA N TA C L AUS

or 15 years, Joe and Susan Patton have been ringing in the season on Hilton Head Island as Mr. & Mrs. Claus. What started as a favor to their daughter Jennifer (proprietor of Artware) and a marketing effort to bring in holiday shoppers has become a tradition for them and certainly hundreds (thousands?) of kids and families every year. Their season of guest appearances kicked off last month with the lighting of the Arts Center Christmas tree and Hudson’s Community Thanksgiving dinner. You can find them most Friday and Saturday nights, posing for photos in their sleigh and bringing holiday cheer to Shelter Cove Towne Centre. The C2 crew stopped by for a quick chat with Mr. & Mrs. Claus and, as expected, Mrs. Claus had baked some chocolate chip cookies for our arrival.

Where to find Mr. & Mrs. Claus: December 3, 5-7 p.m. Island Rec Center’s Winter Wonderland Festival Shelter Cove Towne Centre

December 4, 12-2 p.m. Pet Photos with Santa Hilton Head Humane Association (10 Humane Way)

December 4, 5-7 p.m. Shelter Cove Towne Centre

December 10 & 11 5-7 p.m. Shelter Cove Towne Centre

December 17, 5-7 p.m. Shelter Cove Towne Centre

December 17, 7:30 p.m. Providence Christmas Walk

December 18, 10:30 a.m. Providence Christmas Message

December 18, 2-4 p.m. Leamington Parade

December 18, 5-7 p.m. Shelter Cove Towne Centre

December 18, 7:30 p.m. Providence Christmas Walk

December 24, 12-2 p.m. Shelter Cove Towne Centre

C2: What is the craziest thing a child has ever asked for from Santa? Joe: Peace on Earth. There have been a few solemn children who have asked me to get their mommy and daddy back being friends with each other. Many requests for the Xbox, Legos, and cell phones. Even the little kids—they all want a cell phone. Sometimes they’ll ask for a puppy, or a kitty … and we make sure they’ve checked with their parents first before granting those

requests. Susan: We get requests for all the normal stuff, but every now and then someone will ask for a helicopter. C2: What is your favorite part about playing this special role every year? Joe: It’s talking to the kids and hearing how many of them say that they are doing a lot at home to help the family. CH2: Do you think they’re lying? Susan: Some of them (laughing). I think

what I enjoy most is the babies who are so cute and smiling and laughing, and then as soon as they get put on Joe’s lap, they lose it. Joe: There have been a lot of children we’ve watched grow up. They come back and get their photo with Santa Claus every year. Susan: The same Santa Claus. That’s important.

C2 MAGAZINE

DECEMBER 2021

Hartland & Sterling W E LCO ME YO U TO

he first Christmas Village Hartland Monahan’s dad ever assembled was in 1950. The festive tiny houses took up just one little alcove in their Montreal apartment. A few years later, the family moved to the suburbs, and with more room to be had, Ernie Monahan expanded his village to encompass an entire spare room. “People in the neighborhood would always stop by to see it,” remembers Hartland, Ernie’s son. Ernie passed away a few years ago, and the future of Ernieville was unclear. That was until Sterling, Heartland’s granddaughter, expressed an interest in carrying on the tradition, all the way down South on Hilton Head Island. Now, the duo is preparing the village in its new location

“Ernieville”

in the Waterwalk Apartments lobby. There are over 100 figurines doing fun “wintry things” like ice skating, skiing, shopping and gathering around the Christmas tree in the center of town. “We are approaching 100 buildings as well,” remarked Hartland as he looked down at the miniature model he had built exclusively for his shoot in this magazine. This most spectacular of tiny Christmas Villages will be on display (free of charge) from December 7-January 2 (9 a.m.-5p.m.) in the lobby of the Waterwalk apartments near Shelter Cove Town Centre. It’s open to the public, and if you are so inclined, bring a canned good or donation for Deep Well or St. Jude’s.

YEARS

Dianne Reynolds BLUF F TO N C H R IST MAS PA RA D E

n 1971 Bluffton Mayor Grady Messex called Dianne Reynolds out of the blue and said, “With all your friends at church and your husband being a judge, you know a lot of people. Do you think you could get a parade going?” “A parade!?” Dianne said. “So, I went to the post office the next day and I ran into Ms. Miriam Brown and asked her if she would help me.” Bluffton’s inaugural Christmas parade consisted of Mayor Messex in a convertible, marching Cub Scouts (Dianne’s sons were in the Cub Scouts), six young people wearing boxes draped in wrapping paper like presents, some singing ladies from church, a horse-riding Mr. Hodge, and the Grand Marshal Wilton Graves, who was in the House of Representatives at the time. That procession, put together by Judge Cecil Reynold’s wife back in 1971, is back again, only this time with 150 floats, multiple Santas, and insanely hilarious costumes. It will be attended by thousands of people on December 4 at 10 a.m. “Someone called it the most eccentric parade in the United States, and we are proud to hold onto that title,” laughed Bluffton’s current Mayor Lisa Sulka. This year, however, the Grand Marshale will be Dianne Reynolds. And we think that’s pretty fitting for the parade’s fiftieth anniversary.

C2 MAGAZINE

DECEMBER 2021

John Carlyle & Karena Brock-Carlyle T H E D U O B EH IN D H ILTO N H E A D DA NC E ’ S TH E NU TCRACK ER, A T RA D IT ION F O R MO RE TH A N 35 YE A RS.

How many years have you been putting on The Nutcracker on Hilton Head Island? We performed our first production of The Nutcracker in 1985. All our dancers are already thinking about the parts they get to dance next year. The Nutcracker is not only a tradition, but also inevitable. Tell us an interesting story about the very first production. The Nutcracker has evolved over the years. In the first production, we had the misguided notion that five-year-olds, as the Toy Soldiers, and six-year-olds, as the Mice, would be adorable. And they were ... until they met each other in costume onstage. The Toy Soldiers took one look at the Mice and ran for their lives. The Mice took one look at a life-size Nutcracker armed with a sword and did the same. It wasn’t a battle scene. It was chaos. The next year, we found roles for those age groups in the much safer Land of Sweets.

We are assuming you have both have played various roles in the production over the years. What are your favorite parts to play? Whenever Karena and I walk into a restaurant together and are faced with empty tables, she always asks me where I would like to sit. I always

answer, “With you.” Thus, if Karena’s favorite role is Sugar Plum, mine is her Cavalier. (My second favorite role is the Mouse King, because, hey ... it’s always more fun to be the bad guy.) How many local kids were in this year’s production? We always lose count. Over the years we have brought in few guest artists. Almost all our dancers are trained at our school. The number of home-grown talented dancers and families that have made this ballet a tradition is somewhere in the thousands. Musicians joke that dancers can only count in eights. So, eight thousand?

Has it always been held at the high school theater? Our first production was at the Community Playhouse on Dunnagan’s Alley. We moved to the Arts Center when it opened. It was a difficult decision to move from that beautiful theater, but the Seahawk offers more space backstage for this mammoth production, and a larger audience with continental seating for optimal sight lines. I’d like to make a prediction for 2022: The Nutcracker will be performed at the Seahawk Cultural Center the two weekends before Thanksgiving.

ARTICLE BY COURTNEY HAMPSON

CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS

cal for at I have been sk. epti th e m su as ly on n ca , we r cousin Based on the siaydebe-ethyeat is because "Santa" is my younge years now. M

f your thoughts fast-forward to Christmas right about the time the last trick or treater retreats, you are not alone. November 1 seems to be the universal go button for all things ho-ho-holiday. But it isn’t the 55 days of Christmas carols that make our spirits bright; it is the traditions passed down, from generation to generation, that warm our hearts like chestnuts roasting on an … well, you get it. Our traditions come from shared experiences intended to create feelings of love, belonging, and community, and it is the traditions that tell the story of our family. The practice of decorating Christmas trees can be traced back to Germany, and we can thank our European ancestors for bringing that tradition here. The Europeans can also be credited with the many holiday markets that pop up in major (and small) cities around the world. Hello mulled wine. Christmas markets remain a staple in Paris, where wooden chalets are lined up in rows, and artisans and craftsmen are selling everything Christmas. A little closer to home, New York’s Bryant Park is home to a spectacular Christmas market each year. Across the pond, our jolly ol’ neighbors in the United Kingdom are prepping Christmas pudding for their holiday meal. The pudding is a custard-esque concoction that began as a porridge and has sweetly evolved over the years. It typically has 13 ingredients, representing Jesus and the 12 disciples, and might include cranberries, raisins, currants, sugars, citrus peels, mixed spices, eggs, and milk. But it is the brandy poured atop and set aflame that really makes the yuletide glow. In Mexico and Latin America, La Posadas is celebrated for nine nights, from December 16 to 24, and represents the journey that Joseph and Mary made from Nazareth to Bethlehem in search of a safe refuge where Mary could give birth to the baby Jesus. Traditionally, a procession goes to different homes each night, followed

Pretty sure this “Santa” IS my sister .

, and ith my sister, Sharone 1980s w et du a d di I . ys hair circa th were the da M iddle sc hool, thosete in Ocean County, New Jersey. JerseyJovi for that. used all the Aquat Nto be messed with. We can thank Bon was no

by mass. On the final night, Christmas Eve, children break open piñatas shaped as stars (to represent the star that guided the three wise men) filled with toys and candy. Gingerbread houses, yule logs, ugly sweaters, advent calendars, cookie exchanges, the Feast of the Seven Fishes, The Nutcracker, candy canes, fruitcake—each has a story to tell. So, this begs the question: How did my family of English, Irish, Czech and Hungarian decent decide that singing for Santa on Christmas Eve would be the tradition upon which we hang our old top hat? Growing up, each year as the Christmas decorations would come down from the attic, so would the song books. My sister Sharon and I would pore over the books, making our selection for the “big show.” For years and years (and decades before we were born), we placated Santa with musical mumblings of “Jingle Bells,” “O Christmas Tree,” and “Rudolph, the Red Nosed Reindeer.” But one year it all changed. This was when my aunt and uncle (who were easily septuagenarians) upped the ante. That year, Santa didn’t just get lyrics. He got a choreographed routine to the tune of “Away in the Manger” that would have put the Von Trapp children to shame—hand gestures, fancy footwork, and a little miming to boot. Uncle Al and Aunt Madeleine stole the show, and the competition was on. After that year, it became each family unit’s mission to out sing and out dance the others. We added background music, dance steps, lip-synchs, and song parodies. This was serious business. And it became a new tradition—one that we continued after my “branch” of the family tree migrated south.

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I was 10. I loved ruffles and smiling with my eyes closed (still do). “Santa” was my grandfather this year.

CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS

Last year, as we prepared for our fifteenth Lowcountry Christmas Eve, I got to thinking. My nieces are no longer young enough to believe in Santa … so is making someone don the 50 year-old-smells-like-moth-balls-Santa suit so the rest of us can sing for our first gift really necessary? I voted no and attempted to inject a new tradition into the mix. I wrapped stocking-stuffer-sized gifts in a massive ball (think 18-inch circumference) of plastic wrap and forced everyone to try to unwrap the ball, whilst wearing oven mitts, to a timer, to attempt to uncover a gift. It was fun, but it won’t replace singing for Santa. Because after we all cussed our way through the plastic ball debacle, Santa arrived. And my stepfather emerged from the shadows (my sister’s laundry room), dressed in drag as my mother, and sang for his present. And I realized that even though I can’t trace our family’s karaoke coalition back to a moment of historical significance, it is indeed significant. To us. Want to kick up your Christmas celebration and prime the pump for a karaoke competition? Here’s the recipe! 

Courtney’s Mom’s Christmas Eve Punch INGREDIENTS - 3/4 cup water - 3/4 cup sugar - 1 6-inch cinnamon stick - 1 teaspoon whole cloves - 1 quart cranberry apple juice - Dash salt - 2 cups red wine chilled (Just because it is a mulled wine, doesn’t mean the cheapest red you can find will do. Try a Zinfandel from the Sonoma Coast, as these reds have a naturally sweet quality, use no oak, and feature vanilla and spice tones.)

DIRECTIONS In saucepan, combine water, sugar, cinnamon, cloves and salt; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes. Strain the spices and chill the liquid. Combine chilled mixture with wine and cranberry-apple juice. This recipe makes 12-14 four-ounce servings. If your family is anything like mine, quadruple the recipe.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

ARTICLE BY BARRY KAUFMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY M.KAT

Ferenc Bukta:

Ferenc Butka is photographed behind the bar at CQ’s Restaurant in Harbour Town.

The CQ’s Bouillabaisse Mussels, fresh fish, shrimp and tomatoes in a white wine sauce

“I’M JUST A GUY IN THE KITCHEN. I WANT TO COOK.” - CHEF FERENC BUKTA

FROM HIS CHILDHOOD IN SOVIET HUNGARY TO HIS ADULTHOOD IN THE KITCHENS OF HILTON HEAD ISLAND, THE NEW CHEF AT CQ’S BRINGS A FRESH PERSPECTIVE TO THE MENU.

f Ferenc Bukta had his druthers, you wouldn’t be reading about him in this magazine. It’s not that the recently anointed executive chef at CQ’s has anything to hide, it’s just that he’s not the kind of chef who seeks out the spotlight. “I’m just not that type of person,” he said, demonstrating an effortless humility that, ironically, makes you only want to know more about him.

“I’m just a guy in the kitchen. I want to cook.” Perhaps it’s his upbringing that has gifted Bukta with the all-toorarely-paired assets of talent and humility. Born in Hungary during communist rule, Bukta describes his childhood as far more idyllic than perhaps Americans view the Soviet lifestyle. The cold-war-era propaganda that life under Russian

Ferenc Bukta:

THE PEOPLE'S CHEF

Grilled Atlantic Salmon Roasted Fingerling Potatoes, Buttered Leeks, Whole Grain Mustard Cream

Roasted Lamb Shank Parsnip purée, baby carrots and rosemary demi-glace

rule was all bread lines and forced labor doesn’t reflect a place that Bukta found filled with family and friends. “It wasn’t as bad as you think,” he said. “There were a lot of programs for children, that’s for sure. They had to build that big Russian army.” And bread lines? Not if Bukta’s grandmother is any indication. “My grandma always cooked huge meals for Christmas,” he said. “And the food she made … so many desserts, four to five entrées, cheese she’d make right there in the kitchen….”

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Stretching his arms out to indicate the whole of the quiet dining area behind the bar area at CQ’s, Bukta added, “This whole room would be full of the food she’d make. I didn’t realize it as a kid, but now that I work in the kitchen I ask, ‘How did she do that?’” Having just turned 91 last month, Bukta’s grandma is keeping her secrets. But one need

only spend a single night dining at CQ’s to know that she must have let a few gems slip to her grandson. Because while he and his staff can still fill that room with delicious food, and do so nearly every night, it’s not about the quantity for Bukta as much as the quality. “I like to do things the right way,” he said. “If I want to do something, I want to do it right. It might take a little longer, but I know the result will be better than if I cut corners.” While he’d never call it a philosophy, that sums up Bukta’s views on cooking as well as anything else. Every dish Bukta and his team prepares starts with that same accept-noshortcuts underpinning. It’s something that was instilled in Bukta first in his native Hungary, where he received his degree in engineering, and in every kitchen since. His culinary journey began when he was just 24 years old, where he was granted a work visa to come to America and work in the kitchen at Sea Pines Resort. One of his first stops was the Harbour Town Bakery, where he met his wife, Jessica. From then on, his home was here. Not just on Hilton Head Island, but in the kitchen. “I’ve learned a lot of things from a lot of different people,” he said. When his stint at Sea Pines wrapped up, Bukta found himself a part of the Lowrey Group family. He would spend 11 years at Old Fort Pub, learning the ropes of fine dining and gaining immense on-the-job experience. And while he relished the newfound responsibility, he found himself wanting to take a step back following the death of his father. He would spend four and a half years at Flora’s Italian Café, working under Branco and Flora Raiac. It was a much-needed respite for Bukta, but it only fueled the fire when he was invited back to take the executive chef spot at CQ’s. When asked what excited him most about taking on the job, he said it was the challenge. “I never was an executive chef. There was always somebody above me, and I wanted to see if I could,” he said. “Plus, I had worked with Justo (sous chef Justo Rivera) at Old Fort Pub. He was just 15 when he started working there.” Another part of the appeal lies in the fact that, well, it’s CQ’s. “There’s so much history in this place, you know?” Bukta said. “There are not many places around here where you can have that.” With that great history comes great expectations, a legacy of fine dining that Bukta now stewards. “I did a little tweak here and there, but there are some dishes that needed to stay,” he said. “The tuna has been on the menu forever. I did something a little different with it, but not much.” Ultimately, he’s not someone who self-aggrandizes. He’s not a chef who will step into a place like CQ’s and make any radical changes. What he’s added has been subtle—a few additions here and there, a different take on the filet which has proven wildly popular, a handful of Hungarian wines on the wine list. While he can fill a room with delicious food just like his grandma, he knows one simple truth when it comes to food. The best dish on the menu is the one you like most. “I’m not going to say I know everything. I’ll listen to people’s opinions because I’m cooking for them. I’m not cooking for myself,” he said. “But I’ve worked my way up and can cook some pretty good food.” Just a few months into his tenure, it’s clear that patrons agree. You can find out for yourself by stopping by.  CQ’s is located at 140-A Lighthouse Rd. on Hilton Head Island. For more information, visit cqsrestaurant.com or call (843) 671-2779. C2 MAGAZINE

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Modeled by Liz of Halo Model & Talent Hair & Makeup by True Beauty by Joanna Marie Styled by Kaila Jeffcoat Photography by M.Kat

that Won't Break the Bank. ALMOST EVERYTHING IS UNDER $100.

Free People sweater $98, Miss Me jeans $64, OluKai shoes $150, Earrings $34 Available at Maggie + Me

Déluc Sweater $50, Déluc Skirt $84, Turquoise clutch $40, Santorini earrings $44, Sofft boot $136 Available at Copper Penny

*Prices change and human error occurs. Please confirm all pricing with stores listed.

BB Dakota sweater $99, Dear John jeans $90, Steve Madden shoes $99, Marcus Adler hat $65, Able clutch $88 Available at Coastal Bliss

Lush dress $62, Bamboo heels $36 Available at Egan + Ella

209wst38 sweater $95, Liverpool pant $95, Donald Pliner shoes $245 Available at Palmettoes

*Prices change and human error occurs. Please confirm all pricing with stores listed.

Sugar + Lips jumpsuit $68, Saylor Betty earrings $19, Mudpie purse $28 Available at Haskins & Co.

Compania Fantastica sweater $82, Compania Fantastica pants $60, Just Kenz earrings (handmade) $82 Available at Eggs ’n’ tricities

*Prices change and human error occurs. Please confirm all pricing with stores listed.

Top $115, Pant $125

Sweater $96, Liverpool jeans $98, Brighton earrings $68, Spartina purse $258 la collection premium par Molly Bracken sweater $128, Liverpool pant $89, Soludos shoes $128 (50% off), Julio earrings $58 Available at Birdie James

Available at Fresh Produce

*Prices change and human error occurs. Please confirm all pricing with stores listed.

Available at Southern Tide

GIFT GUIDE

Rollers Wine and Spirits Perrier Jouet’s Cuvee Belle Epoque. An iconic bottle and an extraordinary gift! $169

Egan+ Ella Cream Satchel - $72

Birdie James Fleur-de-Lis Pendant - $185 Palmetto Dunes Robert Trent Jones Pro Shop Olukai Kaula Pa’a Kapa Shoes - $92

Wild Birds Unlimited Eastern Bluebird Mug - $10 Eggs ’n’ Tricities TAT2 Designs Coin Bangle- $220 Palmettoes Edinburgh sweater - $215

*Prices change and human error occurs. Please confirm all pricing with stores listed.

Merle Norman Gold set - $65

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*Prices change and human error occurs. Please confirm all pricing with stores listed.

Copper Penny Think Roylin Double Zip Bag - $138

GIFT GUIDE Quinn’s Diamond Jewelers 14KT white gold Emerald and diamond ring - $15,000 Birdie James Juliet Hoop Gold Pearl Earrings - $95

Palmettoes Donald Pliner suede booties - $285

Palmetto Dunes Robert Trent Jones Pro Shop SD Swing Jacket - $105

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*Prices change and human error occurs. Please confirm all pricing with stores listed.

Your CBD Store 500mg Broad Spectrum CBD Mint Tincture - $50, 1000mg Full Spectrum CBD Pain Cream - $95, 300mg Vegan CBD, Gummy Bears - $45

Coastal Bliss R+P Leopard Winter Beanie - $65

Palmetto Dunes Robert Trent Jones Pro Shop Palmetto Dunes Vimhue Ponytail cap - $32 Pure Salt Studios Unwind and Rest: Silk Eye Mask and Scrunchie Set: $58, Local Handpoured Soy Candle: $22, Candle Wick Trimmer: $12, Aromatherapy Shower Steamers: $18, Pillow Spray: $22

Haskins & Co. Lounge Z Holiday Pullover - $62 Lounge Z Mia Stripe Shorts -$46

Forsythe Jewelers Roberto Coin’s Coin Classics - 18K yellow gold graduating paper clip chain necklace, 17” $1,900.

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*Prices change and human error occurs. Please confirm all pricing with stores listed.

Birdie James Organic Tote- $88

Southern Tide Beachside Tote - $110

Wild Birds Unlimited Smokehouse Bird House - $70

Heritage Fine Jewelry Diamond and Gold Huggie Style earrings are a sparkling gift with many different styles and sizes in stock, that she’ll comfortably wear and enjoy for years to come

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Quinn’s Diamond Jewelers White platinum Ring with round diamond $24,000

Southern Tide Skipjack Lounge Pajama Pants$58

*Prices change and human error occurs. Please confirm all pricing with stores listed.

Club Car of Hilton Head Homelink Universal Garage Doors Opener $230

Maggie and Me Boutique Favorite Daughter T-shirt - $45 Favorite Daughter Sweatshirt - $68

Merle Norman Lengendary Cheek Gift Set - $50

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kay, gather ’round everyone. It’s Dad’s turn to play Santa this year! Now before we dive into … hey! Stop pelting your sister with Nerds. This is important. Jeez, those things really leave some welts, don’t they? It’s like birdshot. You okay, sweetie? Alright, walk it off. I have some great, thoughtful presents for you guys. Now as I was saying … no I don’t care who started it … before we just start ripping apart the wrapping paper like a pack of greedy hyenas, I want to say something about the Christmas spirit. Now this time of year it’s important to be thankful for the things you have. Especially this year, when basically every Christmas present is currently stuck in a shipping container somewhere in California. So, unless any of you got Dad a plane ticket and a set of bolt cutters, I’d adjust your expectations. And I know you had your heart set on that PlayStation 5, but the good people at Sony, in their wisdom, only deigned to produce like 30 of them, and the bidding wars are getting kind of intense. See this black eye? That was from Daddy trying to buy your love. That said, I want you to know that every one of these presents, even though in the physical sense a lot of them came from the garage, in a more spiritual sense they came from the heart. And that’s what the Christmas spirit is all about, right? Right? It is. You’ll just have to trust me on that. Junior, you’re first up since you’re the oldest. That’s right, it’s a DIY kit! I know it’s just bits of wood, but think of the possibilities!

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Okay, first of all, stop crying and listen. I know these might look like the bits that were left over after those shelves I put in the laundry room, but there’s more to it than that. Son, this is an investment in your future. I’ve been following the market pretty closely, and over the past month, lumber futures have risen 40 percent. Have you been to the hardware store lately? This is like fresh-cut chemically treated gold. The way I see it, the sky’s the limit on this stuff. If prices continue the way they have, these six little scraps of Georgia pine are going to put you through college. Invest wisely. Okay, sweetheart, your turn. Next stop, fun city! It’s your very own coin jar! Now I know you like your antiques, so I dove really deep

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on this one. You see, these little metal circles in here used to be how we paid for things. Why I remember a time when just one of these little fellas could buy me all the Bazooka Joe my tiny little mouth could hold. And that’s why Daddy can bite through a cinder block today. Don’t you want a giant muscular jaw like Daddy? Plus, if you don’t spend them all on weapons-grade bubble gum, you hang onto these bad boys, and in a few years when this whole national coin shortage has died down and the mint has just given up and started producing license plates or whatever, you’re going to be the only person in town who can break a dollar. Won’t that be fun? Okay, fine. Just take it down to Coinstar and exchange it for an Amazon gift card, since that’s pretty much where our currency is headed anyway. Who’s next? Oh look! It’s a present for my sweet little baby girl. You’ve been really good this year, so I sure hope Santa brought you something extra special! Is it an OMG LOL WTF doll like you asked for? Even better! That’s right, tiny little shampoos from that hotel Dad stayed at during his business trip last week! How did Santa know? Also, why are you crying? Okay, I’ll let Santa know he screwed up here, but in Santa’s defense, you are extremely hard to shop for.



Speaking of hard to shop for, it’s Mommy’s turn! Now honey, we all remember the fiasco last year with the novelty liquor dispenser and, again, I’m sorry I didn’t think to take the clearance tags from it. I was just so desperate to get you something nice after the infamous nose hair trimmer of 2018. So, this year, I’ve decided that, in addition to my annual coupon good for one free back rub, I’d up the ante a little bit. That’s right; it’s a tie! Now when Father’s Day rolls around, you have the perfect opportunity to give me a crappy present for once! Not only do I never wear ties, but you get the pleasure of knowing this regifted tie is way worse than any of the terrible gifts I’ve given you! Oh, come on, what do you mean your mother was right about me? Where’s your Christmas spirit? Where are you going? Honey? Oh, look, kids! Mom got you all some more Nerds! Hey, wait! Aaarrrgghhh!  C2 MAGAZINE

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ARTICLE BY CHERYL ALEXANDER PHOTOGRAPHY BY M.KAT

BUILT RIGHT H

THE CUSTOM LIFESTYLE BUILDER THAT BUILDS IT RIGHT THE FIRST TIME

evin and Lisa Lapinski, owners of Built Right Homes, came to the Lowcountry in 2007 with a long-term goal of owning and operating their own business building custom homes. However, that long-term goal quickly evolved into a short-term reality as the couple opened Built Right Homes in December of 2008. Initially, the couple focused on acclimating themselves to their new location and getting to know the people in the industry. Kevin worked side by side with contractors and learned about the area and the people he would later handpick for his own team. Built Right Homes takes pride in the quality craftsmanship built into each of their custom homes. With expertise that comes from a career that spans upwards of 25 years and a motto of “Small enough to listen; big enough to deliver,” Built Right is intent

On a large lot that was once completely wooded, the owners’ original vision for a Southern contemporary Lowcountry home with an inviting front porch was brought to life by the professionals at Built Right Homes.

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BUILT RIGHT H O M E S

A bunk room was a must-have and this one is specially thought out. With oversized bunks, the homeowners’ grandchildren will sleep here comfortably for years to come. The family room with retractable doors affords both an incredible view of the greenscape and access to the back porch and outdoors. The open floor plan seamlessly connects the kitchen and living space by incorporating a navy blue sectional that perfectly matches the kitchen island and dramatic hood.

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on providing the highest quality homes with a comfortable build process. “Kevin is the sticks and bricks of our business,” said wife Lisa. “He is truly the most hands-on builder I have ever known, and he loves working closely with his crews and our clients.” A native of Atlanta, Kevin worked for more than 12 years on the front lines developing the construction department, overseeing quality control, generating estimates, reviewing architectural plans, and managing the customer care department for a large home builder for whom he built upwards of 7,000 homes. Now he uses his 25 years of combined experience to oversee every detail of each Built Right project ensuring customers’ expectations are not only met but exceeded. Kevin’s workmanship and ability are respected among his trade partners on every jobsite.

“We build to meet our clients desired lifestyle,” Kevin said, “with dedicated attention to detail in the planning stages to create a fun and exciting experience.” Lisa, on the other hand, brings the client’s vision to life by making sure each design selection reflects a seamless aesthetic and effortlessly supports the lifestyle of the family who will live there. Lisa spent 17 years of her working career as a sales analyst for BP, covering territories in Georgia and the Carolinas. And though she enjoyed her work, something was missing: an outlet for her creativity. With Kevin at Built Right, Lisa’s passion for design inspires her. She uses her artistic touch to make every home a unique statement that tells the homeowner’s story and allows the personality of the family to shine. “Kevin and I believe that it is the simple things in life that matter the most,” Lisa said, “and coming home every day to a place where you and your family are comfortable and happy is important.” At Built Right, the client always comes first, and each employee understands that building a client’s dream home or renovating their current one should not be stressful. In fact, they believe

Defined by ample space to move around, this gourmet cook’s kitchen offers professionalgrade appliances as well as 39-inch counters, floor-to-ceiling cabinet space, a coffee/wine bar, and distinctive pendant lighting. The navy blue island and hood are a striking contrast to the vivid white kitchen.

The homeowner’s desired aesthetic of “Southern with a touch of glam” is perfectly illustrated in this bathroom vignette. Nineteenth century Nepalese doors invite guests into the bourbon room, a “must-have” for this couple who originally hails from Kentucky.

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BUILT RIGHT H

High ceilings and gold fixtures add a luxury feel to this guest bath. Bold, oversized subway tiles in navy and gold and the elongated window above punctuate this bath/ shower with both color and natural light. A special niche for a hutch that once belonged to the Glenda’s grandmother provides a showcase for this extraordinary piece of furniture Large picture windows in this guest room provide a great view to the Lowcountry yard and let in lots of natural light. The large poster bed with lush linens in the home’s signature navy color scheme effortlessly connect this room to the rest of the home.

An inviting front porch with a comfortable swing announces this home’s Southern style.

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that it should be one of the most enjoyable and rewarding experiences in life. “There will always be obstacles to overcome,” Kevin said, “especially in today’s environment with delays in the supply chain, labor shortages, etc. However, we really make sure we have open communication with our clients. We also understand that everyone has concerns in the build process, from simply revisiting design selections to adjusting their budget. At Built Right, they work through the entire process prior to construction. The staff will create selections based on your budget, individual tastes, and lifestyle. “We truly do care about our clients, and we listen to their dreams as well as their concerns,” Lisa said. For example, many of our clients are moving into smaller homes than they previously lived in, and I remind them, ‘You’re not downsizing—you are not losing anything. At this stage of your life, you are RIGHT sizing. You are turning a page so that you can look forward to your future.’” Kevin and Lisa are also great with clients who may not know exactly what they want in their home, because they make listening a priority in the build process. By asking questions and offering up ideas, their clients can then make critical decisions. “We are not building a production home,” Lisa said, “but a custom home, starting from—in many cases—a completely blank canvas. We ask questions like, ‘What are some of the things you do every day? What is your desired view from your windows? How much of your budget do you want to go towards maximizing a view? Do you have pets, children, or grandchildren? Do you enjoy entertaining?’ These kinds of considerations render a home truly custom where the personality of the family is infused into every design choice. Recently, the Lapinskis built a home for Lonny and Glenda Satterly, another Lowcountry couple who, like Kevin and Lisa, work side by side. The Satterlys came to Hilton Head with the desire to downsize from a 30-acre estate in Kentucky. When the Satterlys first discovered the lot where their new home now resides, it was completely wooded and its potential was hidden, so they brought

BUILT RIGHT H O M E S

Kevin Lapinski, Glenda Satterly, Lonny Satterly, and Lisa Lapinski. The Lapinskis, owners of Built Right Homes, and the Satterlys, agents for the Joan Kelly Group at Keller Williams Real Estate, collaborated on the Satterlys new home in Indigo Run.

a ladder out to the property, climbed it to the elevation that the first floor of the home would be. “We saw the huge oaks through the pines, the two lagoons, and the green space afforded by the golf course. Plus, on three sides there are no neighbors,” Lonny said. “One of our friends connected us to Matt Mitchell, the COO at Built Right Homes, and he served as the supervisor of our project.” The Satterlys brought their vision, ideas, and “musthaves” to the Lapinskis, and the two couples began to collaborate on several distinct features of their new home. For example, the Satterlys wanted to incorporate some key elements and pieces of furniture into the home design, including large Nepalese doors from the 1800s and heirloom hutches that belonged to each of the Satterlys’ grandmothers. The Built Right team created showcase spaces for these special items.

A sliding barn door separates the upstairs guest room from the bunk room in this unique set up. The Satterlys look forward to family visits where they’ll enjoy sleepovers with the grandkids in the bunk room. As agents for The Joan Kelly Group at Keller Williams Real Estate, the idea of a home office where the Satterlys could efficiently work together was an integral part of their design. “Not only did we need ample desk space and room to move around,” Lonny said, “we wanted our office to afford us a large window to fill the room with natural light and provide a great view.” Another unique detail is in the kitchen. “We are both very tall people,” Glenda said, “and I love to cook, so it was

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The Satterly’s dining room exudes a Charleston vibe with brick columns that frame the room.

BUILT RIGHT H

E S

In the master bath, every detail and surface reflects subtle luxury and glamour from the exquisite lighting choices to the cool Quartzite countertop accents, smooth travertine tile, and sparkling crystal knobs and pulls.

important that our counters allow me to spend time in my kitchen without wrecking my posture and my lower back.” Where a normal counter height is 36 inches, the Satterly’s counters are 39 inches and provide the level of comfort the couple desired. Overall, the Satterlys describe their Built Right experience as fantastic: “The Lapinskis are great people to work with. Their attention to detail and ability to coordinate with their trade partners and crews is unmatched. Even though we were building during the pandemic, they were still able to pull it together and keep everyone on the job. The husband-andwife team were easy to work with, good listeners, extremely organized, and willing to assist with the design selections of our home. Their process is seamless and budget-driven. We highly recommend Built Right Homes.” An important cornerstone of the Built Right philosophy is that the most important home they build is your home. Built Right provides a hands-on approach from conception to completion of your home, which includes in-house design and the all-important element of stress-management. “We are a team,” Kevin said. “We do it together.” Built Right constructs custom homes in and around the Lowcountry, including the Bluffton/Hilton Head areas in many of the most sought-after communities such as Palmetto Bluff, Colleton River, Hampton Hall, Indigo Run, and others within Beaufort County. Visit builtrighthomesbluffton.com for more information.  C2 MAGAZINE

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ARTICLE BY CHERYL ALEXANDER PHOTOGRAPHY BY M.KAT

BUDGET BLINDS HILTON HEAD

f your home’s windows are its eyes into the world, consider that the shades, blinds, and shutters are the lashes that embellish and protect it. Not only do window coverings add convenience and comfort to your home, but they are also an uncomplicated way to transform your home’s interiors into something incredibly special. The best blinds and shades can control light, add privacy, improve your sleep, and lower your home’s energy usage by adding a layer of insulation in front of a drafty window. The most popular and efficient options will even work with a smart home system, allowing you to adjust them with a touch on a screen or the setting on your phone app. At Budget Blinds, with two convenient showrooms in Bluffton and Beaufort serving Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, Hardeeville, Ridgeland, Okatie, and Beaufort, the professional staff will help you choose the best blinds for your home based on factors like style, sunlight-blocking capability, safety, and convenience. To improve the entire customer experience, Budget Blinds’ Bluffton has moved to a new location in Sheridan Park from the previous store at Simmonsville Rd. and 278. “We were already looking to expand the Bluffton showroom when this new building came on market,” said owner Bob Engler. “We needed more warehouse space to store inventory, more office space so that our employees didn’t have to work on top of each other, and more display space so our customers can experience our great products in new and better ways.” Getting through the pandemic has been challenging for everyone, and for the folks at Budget Blinds, it was no exception. Recently, however, businesses are experiencing new trials as people move to the Lowcountry in record numbers. “Once we got over the shock of going from uncertainty to major growth,” Engler said, “we knew we needed to add to our team. We bought new vehicles and changed how we display our products once we moved into our new

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Budget Blinds impressive new showroom in Sheridan Park.

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Budget Blinds is known for their professional staff, whose knowledge and experience are unmatched in the industry. space. Now finding and training employees quickly in a way that allows us to maintain the great level of sales and service our customers expect has become the next big challenge.” New employees at Budget Blinds get thorough training. When hired, they start by job shadowing long-term employees to learn specific tricks of the trade and location-specific protocol. They also may train at vendor facilities to gain further expertise. “We always make sure new sales hires are able to answer customer questions and that our installers provide service above market expectations,” Engler said. “For anyone seeking a stable career in a strong industry, Budget Blinds may be just what you’re looking for.” New hires aren’t the only ones learning new skills. With the explosion of innovative technology affecting window coverings, all the staff at Budget Blinds are gaining proficiency as they learn to sell and service new products that are coming on the market. The trends in window coverings are moving in the direction of smart-homecompatible products, such as those you can control with an app on your phone or

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Owner, Bob Engler. those that respond to voice commands. Other popular products include shades on timers that move up and down in the way you need them to move whether you are at home or not. For example, you can program your bedroom shades to lower at 8 p.m. and raise at 7 a.m.; or in the living room where you might want to protect your floors from harsh UV light or glare, you can program the shades to lower at 3 p.m. “People with homes of all ages and sizes are updating to new products,” Engler said. “When we first started 17 years ago, roller shades were not so popular. Back then, it was more blinds with louvers. Now, however, most people prefer a simpler, cleaner aesthetic and more open windows. Shades offer that clean look with the function of light control or privacy.”

Plantation shutters are still a big demand in the Lowcountry, but currently folks are installing much bigger panels with bigger louvers than in former years, to accommodate a cleaner look and provide a better view. And if that were not enough, Budget Blinds’ commitment to beautifying interiors extends well beyond these products to deliver style and variety for those homeowners with unique circumstances and needs. For example, their woven natural shades are made from hemp, kenaf and flax, are 100 percent organic, environmentally friendly, and completely recyclable. A collection of moisture-resistant window treatments for highhumidity rooms offers the best in both durability and style. These blinds and shutters will not warp or peel under harsh, moisture-rich conditions brought on by high humidity. So how do you get the right product for your home’s style and function? You can visit the showrooms in Bluffton or Beaufort and have a look at what is available, and then a sales professional will visit your home, take measurements, and offer expert advice regarding products and product lines that will fit your aesthetic and budget. After that, professional, courteous, and skilled craftsmen will install your new window coverings. “We’re local,” Engler said. “We care about the same things you do, and unlike many similar providers, we aren’t going anywhere. We’ve been in business for 17 years and we aim to find employees that will stay with us for a while and become experts in the field to serve our customers in the best way possible.” Budget Blinds is known for their professional staff, whose knowledge and expertise are unmatched in the industry. Their qualified, certified employees can offer suggestions on exactly what to do and what not to do based on your desires and needs, both before and after the sale. “We don’t just sell you a blind and then move on,” Engler said. “We provide solutions that fit your needs and preferences, and we are there for you afterwards if you have warranty issues or need service. Reliability and consumer confidence are cornerstones of our business.”  For more information, visit budgetblinds.com/hiltonheadisland.

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ARTICLE BY BARRY KAUFMAN

Molly Hornbeak with Santa Claus

Driven to Give G BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF BLUFFTON TAKING SANTA’S WORKSHOP TO THE NEXT LEVEL

enerally speaking, there is no shortage of miracles this time of year. Call it the Christmas spirit, call it the generosity of the season, whatever it is, it seems to ease open our hearts just a little. We give more freely. We share more openly. We take care of those around us, inspired by a renewed sense of fellowship and love. If you don’t believe us, if somehow you’re still carrying a Grinchian, Scrooge-like, bah humbug attitude toward the season, we would direct you to the Bluffton Boys & Girls Club. There, amid the glitz of inflatables and twinkle lights and the atmosphere of generosity, the staff and volunteers are making the kind of Christmas-magic-moments that will grow any heart three sizes. “We’re still amazed at the miracles that have happened before,” director Molly Hornbeak said. “I don’t think you can put a price tag on that.” This year, the miracle will wind through the Boys & Girls Club of Bluffton’s parking lot, giving hundreds of families a happy holiday and spreading hope and joy. Spurred on by the generosity of the community, some 700-plus people will be dazzled by the kaleidoscope of decorations lining the drive, share in the fellowship of the season, and fill their trunks with toys, bikes, scooters, sporting goods, and groceries. This drive-through format came about last year as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. What had been a Santa’s workshop set up in the club’s gym moved outside. “I had to tell (my volunteers) we weren’t going to be able to do Christmas that year,” Hornbeak said. “They didn’t take that. They said we had to do something.” Spurred to action, the volunteers began working the phones in the hopes of salvaging Christmas for the children. The community

responded in a big way. “The magnitude of it … we had businesses from here to Atlanta pitching in,” volunteer Gene King said. Nimmer Turf Farm gave bikes, scooters and decorations for the outdoor workshop. Realtor Jeff Hunt donated some of the 200 bikes he collects for donations each year. Collins Realty Group went door to door in the Haven Community collecting toys. Helping Hands of Bluffton gave nearly 250 bags of groceries. “The support that has poured in from this town, not just gifts but ornaments, decorations, blowups…. The only thing we didn’t have, that I want this year, is some snow,” Hornbeak said with a laugh. We may not get snow, but the generosity has persisted. For this year’s drive-through, Colleton River will sponsor a pre-party for teens, the Town of Bluffton has helped, and Bluffton Self Help recently sent a donor to the club who chipped in six full-size palates of toys. You’ll have the opportunity to help, too. Simply drop an unwrapped gift in one of the hand-decorated boxes you’ll find around town, and you can be part of the miracle. Visit bgcbluffton.org to learn more. C2 MAGAZINE

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ARTICLE BY BARRY KAUFMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY M.KAT

Catching the

Next Big Thing IT’S NOT JUST MOUTH-WATERING SEAFOOD—SLAPFISH REPRESENTS A SEA OF CHANGE IN SEAFOOD.

t’s hard to remember, but there was a time when the lines between casual dining and fast food were as rigid as they were unbreakable. You had your sit-down restaurants, and you had your drive-in restaurants, and never the twain shall meet. And then something amazing happened. The Taco Bells of the world gave way to Chipotle’s, Moe’s and Qdoba. The McDonald’s gave way to the Five Guys, Shake Shacks and Smashburgers. Even restaurants that threaded the needle like Subway started losing ground to Panera and Au Bon Pain.

They called it fast casual, and it represented perhaps the greatest advancement in family dining since free crayons. And while this new wave of hybrid fast casual restaurants, ones that eschewed the formality of tableside service but embraced the possibility that fast food can still taste good, changed the dining landscape, there was one sector that was left behind: seafood. Well, hold onto your tricorn hat, Captain D. The fast casual concept has come to seafood in the form of Slapfish. “It’s gourmet seafood in a casual atmosphere,” said Zach Lomasney, co-owner, along with his brother Dave and parents Dave and Sharon, of the Hilton Head Island Slapfish. “We’re the gap

CLOBSTER GRILLED CHEESE Melting mix of lobster, crab and a creamy herb sauce TRADITIONAL LOBSTER ROLL Served warm tossed lightly in drawn butter, mayo & lemon

ULTIMATE FISH TACO Giant two-handed fish taco grilled or crispy, cabbage, awesome sauce, pickled onion

LOBSTER TAQUITOS Drizzled with awesome sauce, flour tortilla

The exterior of Slapfish on

the Next Big Thing

Hilton Head Island

between the fine dining and the greasy fast food of seafood.” One trip through the menu proves that the fast casual philosophy seems to have been tailor made for seafood. Whether it’s the lobster taquitos, fish tacos, or poke bowls, each dish is as effortlessly Instagramable as it is overwhelmingly delicious. These are the dishes you’d expect to have to navigate past a maître d to enjoy, served with the speed that the deep-fried drive-throughs only dream about. Part of that stems from the menu’s West Coast pedigree. “There’s almost a little bit of a California vibe to the food,” Zach said. “You look at our shrimp burrito, it has loads of shrimp, rice, spinach, pickled onion, awesome sauce and salsa. It’s a very California-style burrito.” It stands to reason. Slapfish started out as a single food truck run by Andrew Gruel, famed for Food Network’s Food Truck Face Off and FYI’s Say It to My Face! Within three months of launching the concept, Gruel had a fleet of trucks.

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Within a year, he had a brick-and-mortar restaurant. And then it was time to expand. And while Slapfish has grown by leaps and bounds in California, Hilton Head Island represents one of just a handful of East Coast locations, including Orlando, Florida, Rockville, Maryland and Washington, D.C., and nearby Pooler, GA. “It’s kind of like a new niche. There haven’t been too many restaurants that do the same thing,” Zach said. “We’re kind of here to fill that gap. We felt there was something lacking in the Hilton Head area.” For Zach, coming together as a family to fill that niche was a no-brainer. “My parents had a lot of experience franchising, so they’ve been a great help leading us through this venture,” he said. Among the first franchisees for Planet Fitness, the elder David and Sharon were on the ground floor for the chain of gyms, growing alongside it and even introducing some of the cornerstones of

A Family Affair: Zach, Sharon, DQ and David Sr. are photographed at the Hilton Head Island Slapfish location on the Hwy 278 near the Sea Pines traffic circle. the concept (Sharon, for example, pioneered the 30-minute workout room). “I grew up in the gym with them as a kid,” Zach said. “We were all a little split apart back when we started looking at this. It was hard being apart for a while, so we wanted to look at something we could do together.” Everyone played a role, from the parents sharing their franchise knowledge to Zach working in his experience in hospitality to the younger Dave’s extensive contractor experience. That last one definitely came in handy as the family set about converting an old convenience store and gas station into the first standalone Slapfish location. “It’s basically a brand-new building. We did a lot of renovations,” Zach said. “It was definitely interesting, but this was a great location … I don’t think you can come onto Hilton Head and not see this restaurant.” They’re not stopping at just a restaurant. Like the fast casual revolution Slapfish represents, the Lomasney family keeps on changing the game. Like most restaurants, they found themselves facing a worker shortage over the last year, but they’ve innovated to overcome. “We have a great staff here and they’ve been here for a while,” Zach said. “We were going to end up losing some of them due to housing, so we went out and purchased a condo just to house our staff. We think they’re great, and we don’t want to lose them.” Treating their employees right is just one of the many innovative new ideas that Slapfish represents. But perhaps their most delicious idea is the one you’ll sample when you stop in for a delicious bite of fast casual seafood brilliance.  Slapfish is located at 1024 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island. For more information or to see the menu, visit slapfishrestaurant.com. C2 MAGAZINE

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FEATURED NEW BUSINESSES: JOE'S ICE CREAM AND BEVERAGE CO., NICK DE SIMONE (US BANK HOME MORTGAGE), TECHNOLOGY KING OF THE LOWCOUNTRY, ENVIROCLEAN AIR, CAROLINA VETERINARY CRITICAL CARE, CHRONIC GOLF, COASTAL GYMNASTICS OF HILTON HEAD, JULIE PARSLEY, AND THE NORTH END POUR HOUSE

JOE’S ICE CREAM & BEVERAGE CO. Joe O’Rourke I Open Since: 2020 How did you get your idea or concept for the business? Drunk in college while eating ice cream with friends, I said, “I bet you can put alcohol in this… Long story short, here we are with coffee too! What service(s) or product(s) do you offer? We offer a Lowcountry experience unlike any other. Kick back on our tree deck under our 100-plusyear-old live oaks and enjoy time with your loved ones and closest friends while sipping on one of your favorite organic coffee beverages or boozy shakes. P.S. We have something big brewing for spring 2022! Why did you choose your current location? I grew up in a small town working with my dad in our family business. I wanted to get back to my roots. I launched the Joe’s concept to honor them, even though I didn’t know a thing about the food and beverage industry. Where we call home is special; the property was severely distressed in Bluffton’s Historic District. We undertook a multi-year revitalization project and completed the vision of

preserving the structure and surrounding landscape. Thank you to everyone who helped see the vision through—especially Ken Tosky of Kenneth Scott Builders for completing it! What is unique about your business? We are the original alcoholic ice cream company of the Lowcountry and probably beyond in a one-ofkind unique operation. (We are a kid- and dog-friendly operation with daily rotating traditional ice cream flavors as well.) What advice would you give to someone just starting out? Be original. You are what you eat! Who is your clientele? The people who drop by! Kind, genuine, and amazing people— locals and tourists alike. It’s been fun. We have had great conversations and shared some laughs. Don’t get me wrong, somehow we do get some “grumpies,” but it’s all good! 15 Bruin Rd. Bluffton, SC 29910 (843) 707-9514 joesicecreambeverage.com

Why did you choose your current location? My family and I (and eventually my wife Jocelyn) had been vacationing on Hilton Head Island for years and loved the area (and restaurants!) so much that we decided to make it our permanent home. What is unique about your business? We help our customers achieve their dream of owning a home and provide real estate agents with a trusted local advisor they can refer their clients to that will provide advice and great customer service to make what can be a stressful process much easier and more efficient. What advice would you give to someone who is just starting out? Find your niche, be responsive to phone calls and emails, and most important, be yourself—even if you are a 12-year-old degenerate wrestling fan trapped in a 42-year-old loan officer’s body!

NICK DE SIMONE U.S. Bank Home Mortgage I Open Since: 2006 (2021 here in Bluffton) How did you get your idea or concept for the business? I fell into the mortgage industry 15 years ago, working part-time marketing for a friend, and ended up between jobs. So, I decided to give it a shot as a career. What services or products do you offer? I offer residential mortgage for one- to four-family homes and condominiums for primary, second (vacation) homes, or investment.

Who is your clientele? Anyone looking to purchase a home or refinance their mortgage; real estate agents, attorneys, and financial advisors who want a reliable referral partner for mortgage loans; or anyone who wants to discuss why Shawn Michaels versus The Undertaker is the greatest WrestleMania match of all. Hit me up on Instagram @ locountrylife and check out my food page @eatHHI! NMLS #36138 (201) 745-3846 mortgage.usbank.com/nickdesimone

TYLER DYKES

Technology King of the Lowcountry

ornell dropout turned Marine Corps veteran and now entrepreneur, Tyler Dykes, founder of Technology King of the Lowcountry, turned his vision of merging excellence and computing into the Lowcountry’s best source for timely, quality technology and computing solutions. From reassembling ’98 desktop computers when he was six years old to coordinating airstrikes and directing air warfare on the most up-to-date and modern systems the Marine Corps has to offer, Tyler has always demanded the best— both of himself and the people he works with. His vision of delivering excellence and his heart for service

has led him to create this new company here in the Lowcountry. After finishing his active-duty Marine Corps service, Tyler moved to Bluffton/Hilton Head Island from North Carolina, following his parents as they retired here. He initially worked at Target Tech and noticed how, instead of scanning purchases, he spent most of his time helping people with their smartphones and other devices. He became the go-to employee whenever a customer had a technology problem. Having learned that he enjoyed helping people and making a difference, he quickly left to pursue his dreams and goals. Tyler believes that nothing comes for free—you have to work for

it. He also believes that a company should benefit everyone it touches: customers, employees, and other companies that provide supplies, services, equipment, and a place to work. He resolved to form a company that would not only help his customers but also contribute positively to our community. He provides employees competitive compensation so they can live in our community and raise families, which he believes is the only way to end the current workforce shortage. Higher wages, in turn, assure that you will receive excellent service from highly qualified technicians—a “one-and-done” approach to getting you back up and running. Caring for others, delivering excellence to customers every day, being dependable, and being available whenever needed drives his entire business model. Beyond serving our community through his business, Tyler helps others learn how to create their own solutions. He truly embodies the “teach a man to fish” mentality, as while he works, he also teaches and trains clients, friends, and families how they can better understand the computing technology they are working with. In addition to doing private consultations and working with clients, Tyler plans to host free classes for the public to help teach and educate the community. Above all, Tyler believes in excellence and achievement for all. To learn more, visit LowcountryTechnologyKing.com or contact Tyler at his personal number (843) 481-2228.

ENVIROCLEAN AIR Rocky and Taylor Whitehead I Open Since: July 2020 How did you get your idea or concept for the business? The products are in hospitals, schools and longterm care facilities all over Europe. We wanted to bring this medical device to the U.S. What service(s) or product(s) do you offer? Indoor air decontamination units Why did you choose your current location? This is where we are located. The Lowcountry is home to us, and we saw a need for locals and tourists in our area. What is unique about your business? Our units are medical grade. They have been tested and proven to get rid of 99.999% of viruses (including COVID and flu), mold, pollen,

hazardous air, odors, fumes, and more in one single air pass. What advice would you give to someone just starting out? To believe in and be passionate about your product. Who is your clientele? Our product is perfect for any home or business. We have focused on areas hit hard by COVID such as schools, restaurants, pharmacies, nursing homes, hospitals, long term care facilities, etc. (843) 540-6973 EnviroCleanAir.com

MATTHEW TENWOLDE Carolina Veterinary Critical Care I Open Since: January 1, 2021 How did you get your idea or concept for the business? My wife is a lifelong Blufftonian. When we came to Bluffton to raise our family, I was astounded that the Lowcountry had such a lack of emergency care. Bringing more than a decade of emergency and surgical experience with me as we moved to Bluffton, I realized my background provided a perfect opportunity to serve my community and bring the Bluffton and Hilton Head areas the after-hours emergency veterinary care it so desperately needed. What service(s) or product(s) do you offer? Carolina Veterinary Critical Care provides urgent and emergency veterinary services after hours and on weekends when their primary vet may not be available. Our services include urgent care, inpatient hospitalization, and surgical treatment of nearly any veterinary emergency (big or small). If you’re worried about your pet, we are too. Why did you choose your current location? We wanted to be in the middle of the Hilton Head Island and quickly expanding Bluffton communities. Every extra mile you have to drive during an

emergency can feel like forever and sometimes can mean the difference between life or death. What is unique about your business? We are the first and only emergency and after-hours veterinary hospital in Bluffton. While many other local veterinarians offer emergency services, we provide treatment and hospitalization all throughout the nights, weekends and holidays when most clinics close their doors and turn off the lights. What advice would you give to someone just starting out? Surround yourself with the right people; our staff is our biggest asset. Our amazing doctors, technicians and receptionists are dedicated, compassionate and skilled. We are blessed to have such an amazing team. Who is your clientele? All of the Lowcountry’s fur babies, grand dogs and kitty companions. If you’re within driving distance, we want to help you and your pet! 21 Buck Island Road Bluffton, SC 29910 (843) 706-9200 carolinavcc.com

a born, and we started this venture in the town we love and call home! Spoiler alert: This won’t be the last CG you see ... franchises coming 2022. Shhhh! What is unique about your business? By far, the best part of our business is providing all ages access to hands-on fun no matter the weather. Though we have all grown accustomed to being in front of a screen throughout each day, we especially love that you can be in front of our big screens while being active and having a blast! Our tabletbased self-order menu keeps you in the fun with minimal interruptions from our staff. And now, with gift cards, league night, trivia night, and various membership levels available, there is even more fun to be had!

CHRONIC GOLF Jeff Smith & Ashley Pemberton I Open Since: August 2021 How did you get your idea or concept for the business? During an out of town weekend getaway, we stumbled upon an indoor golf bar and quickly realized what a great addition one would be on Hilton Head Island. We also realized a lot could be improved within the indoor golf model—such as uninterrupted play time, extending the model to include all ages, and sports other than golf. What service(s) or products do you offer? We have five simulator bays, each offering 14 sports and over 120 virtual golf courses. We are partners of Srixon and Cleveland golf, who have provided their latest models available in three different flexes at every bay. In addition

to US Kids Golf clubs for the blooming Chronic Golfers, we provide all other sports equipment. Each rental is per bay, not per person, seats six comfortably and includes a private TV. There is a full bar and plenty of food options! We are quickly becoming Hilton Head’s most sought after special event space with the ability to accommodate up to 90 people with platter menu options. Other sports include baseball, soccer, football, hockey, rugby, bocce, carnival games, and the fan favorite—zombie dodgeball. Why did you choose your current location? We sought out this location a year prior for another business idea. As things evolved and our family and friends jumped on board, Chronic Golf was

What advice would you give to someone who is just starting out? Buckle up and don’t give up! Entrepreneurship is like riding a roller coaster. When you feel like you can’t do it anymore, remember that there will be another moment to breathe just around the corner. Relish the positives—each one is a milestone that will give you what you need to keep pushing. Our constant positives were our son, family, friends, and community. There are always more people cheering for you than you realize. Who is your clientele? That is the best part of our business! EVERYONE! We have toddlers to elderly come in to play or just watch. It’s an all-inclusive environment. We see our members working on their golf games alone and with their coaches, walk-in customers who just want to get a drink and some food, and all ages having parties here. Corporate events are becoming very popular as well. It’s really a cool business model that enables us to see such diversity daily. 59A New Orleans Rd. Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 (833) 987- GOLF (4653) mychronicgolf.com

COASTAL GYMNASTICS OF HILTON HEAD C a r r i e C o nway I Op e n S i nc e : 2 0 2 1 How did you get your idea or concept for the business? Our original location is in Bluffton, and when the opportunity arose to expand on the island, I took it. What service(s) or product(s) do you offer? We offer recreational and competitive gymnastics instruction, judo, birthday parties, and summer camp. Why did you choose your current location? We took over Southern Elite Gymnastics Academy. What is unique about your business? Between our two locations, we are able to offer a wide variety of classes, competitive teams, and special events. There is an opportunity for everyone to participate in the sport.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out? Trust your instincts. It’s important to take advice from others but sticking to your plan and ideas will be the key to your success. Who is your clientele? Anyone interested in the sport of gymnastics. We have classes for kids as young as 18 month and adult classes as well. There is something for everyone. 84D Beach City Rd. (843) 686-3496 coastalgymnasticscenter.com

TOP TINT OF BLUFFTON Kevin Kicklighter, Andy O’Reilly, Paskell Ferbert Open Since: 2017 What service(s) or product(s) do you offer? We specialize in window tinting. We stick to what we know, and what we do well. Why did you choose your current location? We had customers driving to our Pooler location from Hilton Head and Bluffton, so we decided that opening Top Tint of Bluffton would meet the needs of our customers. We are excited to announce Top Tint of Okatie, our newest location, 63 Shinger Ave is now open.. What is unique about your business? Our biggest praise from our clients is that we always exceed their expectations.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out? Don’t overextend yourself. Who is your clientele? Everyone! 1208 Fording Island Road, Unit A Bluffton, SC 29910 63 Shinger Ave, Ridgeland SC 29936 (843) 706-2552 toptintbluffton.com

THE NORTH END POUR HOUSE Chip Dolfi I Open Since: March 15, 2021 for us How did you get your idea or concept for the business? I was looking for an opportunity on the island, and this was the best one—a great place run by a terrific family. Our goal is to take the opportunity afforded us—not to change what was working but make our own mark.

the revenue from the dining room that night. We held our first one with Fresh Start. Additionally, we have live music and dancing every Wednesday night with Ross2 and every Thursday night with The Bobby Ryder Quartet. We have terrific dinner special tied to each evening.

What product(s) or service(s) do you offer? We’re a full-service restaurant and bar. Great daily specials, 10 TVs for college games, and with the NFL package, we have all the NFL games every week.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out? Know your market. Know your audience. Surround yourself with good people. Trust your instincts. Keep true to yourself, your goals, and your values.

Why did you choose your current location? The restaurant has been located at the same address for more than 20 years.

Who is your clientele? We’re a locals bar that makes visitors to the island feel welcome.

What is unique about your business? We’re a locals restaurant with a great vibe—live music three days a week, daily destination specials. Every Tuesday, we will be partnering with a local charity. They will receive 20 percent of all

Port Royal Plaza 95 Mathews Dr, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 (843) 681-4153 Thenorthendpourhouse.com

The studio is located in the Village at Wexford, in the corner next to British Open Pub.

Hilton Head Pilates owner and certified instructor Martha Stichweh with fellow instructor Kathleen Moran.

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ARTICLE BY LINDA S. HOPKINS PHOTOGRAPHY BY M.KAT PILATES HILTON HEAD INVITES YOU TO EXPERIENCE A POWERFUL, FULLBODY SYSTEM OF EXERCISE TO LOOK AND FEEL YOUR BEST.

f you could unleash a genie from a bottle and be granted three wishes for your body, what would you change? Would you ask for stronger legs, a flatter tummy, a toned backside? Would you plead for your back to stop hurting, your jeans to zip, or your golf game to improve? Genies in bottles are hard to come by these days, but if you are willing to put in some time and energy, the instructors at Pilates Hilton Head

have everything you need to achieve those longed-for results and more. As exercise trends come and go, Pilates has stood the test of time, and for good reason. Developed by legendary physical trainer Joseph Pilates in the 1920s, Pilates teaches controlled movements using resistance and counter-resistance. “As you age, it’s important to understand that weight resistance training is much better than lifting weights,” explained Martha Stichweh, certified Pilates instructor and owner/founder of Pilates Hilton Head. “Weightlifting can be hard on the joints. Resistance training, whether it’s with bands or on the Reformer (a bed-like frame with a flat platform that C2 MAGAZINE

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uses springs for assistance and resistance), is much gentler on the body, and it’s very strengthening.” “You’re getting more bang for your buck, too, because you have resistance in both directions on the springs,” said certified instructor Kathleen Moran, who came on board at Pilates Hilton Head in 2020. “The Reformer is a very supportive piece of equipment. When you’re pulling or letting it go back, your muscle is working.” Whether you’re recovering from an injury, dealing with back pain, or simply wanting to feel better and move better every day, Pilates can help by maximizing muscle efficiency. “It is work you can carry with you in your daily life,” Moran said. “There’s functional movement involved. As you bend down to pick something up or make the bed, you may be thinking about pulling your navel to your spine. You’ll hear your Pilates instructions in your head as you are moving.” “You learn what you should be doing all day every day— using the core—whether it’s pushing the vacuum cleaner or swinging the golf club,” Stichweh added. “Pilates is the safest form of exercise I have seen. It’s a gentle way to exercise the joints and the muscles and do it safely with control.”

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One of the main attractions at Pilates Hilton Head is the personalization made possible by the intimate studio and available training formats, which include private sessions, duets, and small group classes (limited to six participants). Retiree John Willis, who attends twice weekly for a duet session with his wife Joanne, can attest to the effectiveness of Pilates and the value of the individualized program at Pilates Hilton Head. Willis came to the local studio with hip flexor discomfort that was affecting, among other things, his golf game. “Pilates has pretty much fixed all that,” he said, attributing the improvement to greater flexibility and core strength. Willis especially appreciates the personalized approach and emphasis on form and technique. “Martha is constantly reminding us how important form is. She’s focused in on us. She’s observing, and she corrects us. She’s great!” he said. “I think people like an intimate setting and smaller classes. They like more of the interaction instead of being in a gym-like atmosphere,” Stichweh said. “We’re not a onesize-fits-all program. We are focused on taking care of the individual needs of each client. If we have six people in a class, we can modify the same exercise for all six people so that they can each do it safely and effectively. We’re cueing every person to help them understand what muscles they are activating and engaging and how they are supposed to be engaging. It’s all about learning how to focus on the core of the body and learning how to connect your mind to tell the body how to move.” “The breathing part of Pilates is also a good thing. It informs your nervous system,” Moran added. Sometimes we do fast breathing to ramp it up and get the circulation going. And other times we use the breath to tell the nervous

system to be slow and controlled.” Medical writer Julie Stimmel began her Pilates practice over 20 years ago. As a former runner plagued by overly tight muscles, Pilates helped improve her flexibility. But it also helped relieve stress. “I really like the mind/body connection you get with Pilates. It calms you down,” she said. Having drifted away from the exercise, Stimmel knew she wanted to get back into it when she moved from North Carolina to Hilton Head Island last year. She praised the local studio, touting the full array of equipment, quality of instruction, and affordability. “In addition to the reformers, [Pilates Hilton Head] has the Wunda chair, the barrels, and the towers. They have everything—all the equipment to give you a lot of variety—and the prices are the same as what I was paying 20 years ago— very reasonable,” she said. “Kathleen is probably the best instructor I’ve ever had,” she continued. “She’s not checking boxes. She’s into doing what’s best for her clients. She listens well and focuses on the areas you want to work on. And it’s never the same. I’m never bored. My strength is back. I had some lower back discomfort, and that has gone away. My flexibility is a lot better, and my core is stronger. I’m so happy I’ve gone back to this.” If you are just beginning, you may wonder how long it takes to notice results. Joseph Pilates said, “In 10 sessions you’ll feel the difference, in 20 you’ll see the difference, and in 30 you’ll have a new body.” Results vary, of course, but Stichweh says people start feeling better relatively quickly. Willis was noticing a difference within a month—eight sessions, he said. “As each week has gone by, it’s gotten better and better. It’s something I look forward to.” The workout is designed for both men and women of all ages and fitness levels to sculpt and tone the core, upper body and leg muscles. “It’s for everyone, no matter where you are in your fitness journey” Moran said. “It is exercise you can do your whole life.”  Pilates Hilton Head is located at 1000 William Hilton Parkway, Suite E2, in The Village at Wexford. Appointments are required. To schedule an appointment or class, call (843) 715-4545 or visit pilateshiltonhead.com for more information.

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Students are learning skills related to filmmaking including cinematography, editing and writing in a new film program at Hilton Head Prep led by faculty member Keagan Thein.

ARTICLE BY BARRY KAUFMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY M.KAT

The Next Step for Prep

NEW PROGRAMS ADD TO 56-YEAR LEGACY OF PREPARING STUDENTS FOR THE FUTURE AT HILTON HEAD PREP

ver since it first opened its doors in 1965, Hilton Head Preparatory has operated under one guiding principle: always look to the future. Preparation is right there in the name, and it’s a cornerstone of the philosophy. In the intervening years since the day the first bell rang, with generations of students passing through and growing into leaders, they’ve never wavered. “We’re proud that we have a goal in mind for students, whether it’s to prepare them for college or exposing them to the arts or athletics,” headmaster

Jon Hopman said. “There’s a sense of purpose that plays a big part in who we are as a school.” Setting the goal is only half the battle—probably less. Seeing that goal through to completion is the real challenge, one that Hilton Head Prep meets with every student who walks through their door. But rising to that challenge means taking a multifaceted approach to education, first, by honoring that old phrase, “You win with people.” Three quarters of the faculty hold advanced degrees, and Prep is proud to retain full-time staff

Hilton Head Prep faculty member, Laura Campbell, teaching students useful skills in coding, computer language and animation in a new K-12 program that began at Prep this year. at nearly every position. “We have more support people in place for our students to be successful in terms of dedicated counselors than anyone else,” Hopman said. “We have definitely invested in people here, with the primary focus being on providing resources for our students.” But perhaps no factor is more important in Prep’s success then their unrelenting pursuit of improving their curriculum. As it stands, the education students receive is among the finest in the country, at a school that has been ranked not only at the top in Beaufort County but among the top 2.5 percent nationwide. But new additions to the available courses at Prep are giving students more options than ever to prepare themselves for the future. The first is something that Prep is now offering for the first time: a film class, designed to introduce students to the world of motion pictures, cinematography, videography and visual storytelling. In an era in which students are largely communicating through short form video—okay, we’ll just say it: TikTok—this program is designed to sharpen their eye and their abilities. “Ultimately, the goal is to have students who can produce a daily newscast or highlight events that are happening around campus,” Hopman said. For aspiring film students, it will give a tremendous leg up as they pursue higher education. Naturally, preparing students for higher education and the future also means giving them the technological tools they need to succeed. Prep has doubled down in that arena, launching a slew of tech programs at nearly every level.

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At the lower school, students will begin their journey with courses designed to teach them coding concepts. As they reach the middle school, they can pursue such subjects as binary, PC hardware, video game creation, ALICE animations, robotics, website development and Python programming. The upper school now offers both an introduction to computer science course as well as an AP course in Computer Science Principles which includes learning both Scratch and Python languages. “It’s an entirely new program we can offer, in a stateof-the-art classroom that was partially made possible through donations,” Hopman said.

No factor is more important in Prep’s success then their unrelenting pursuit of improving their curriculum.

And those donations come from all over, a generosity of spirit from alumni and the community that has embraced Hilton Head Prep for over half a century. “I’ve talked to a lot of people, a lot of long-time island residents, and they’re proud that Hilton head Prep has been there to serve the community,” Hopman said. “We’re getting to the point where we see a lot of graduates coming back and being contributors around the island. There’s a rich heritage to our school.” And it’s one that will continue to grow, particularly with the influx of new residents the island has seen over the last couple of years. “For a lot of the families that come through looking to move to Hilton Head, the first thing is making sure they have a great school for their kids,” Hopman said. “We see that happen quite a bit, so we know we’re meeting a lot of needs for people coming from all over the country. And we are small enough for our teachers to give very individualized attention but big enough to offer a wide range of courses and extracurricular activities. We’re part of the attraction for Hilton Head Island and surrounding areas.” These new islanders are learning what the rest of us have known for years: Hilton Head Prep produces results. With need-based tuition assistance available, it’s not about simply preparing the elite. It’s about preparing those who are ready to take on the next challenge. “We are looking for students who are highly motivated and want to come to a place and work hard and be part of a community like this,” Hopman said. “There’s nothing easy about it. But we make it as easy as possible with teacher assistance and community support.”  Find out more at hhprep.org. C2 MAGAZINE

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This & That

C2 Magazine • December 2021 Edition A Series of Fortunate Events, interesting news and a hodge-podge of other items. You know…this and that! If you would like to submit something for this special section, please email hunter@celebratehiltonhead.com. If we have room and it’s appropriate for public consumption, we’ll be happy to oblige.

THE ALL-NEW QUARTERDECK ARTICLE BY JESSE BLANCO

I think we’d all agree that sometimes the best things happen by accident. Afterward, you look around and say, “Well, alrighty then. I’ll take it.” That’s just what happened to me one morning a few weeks back, standing on a sidewalk out in front of the Harbour Town Clubhouse at Sea Pines Resort. I’d just left a grueling workout. I was in sweats and a sweaty T-shirt. But there I was when a golf cart pulled up on me. The driver was the Matt Roher, director of food and beverage at Sea Pines Resort. “Hop in,” he said. I’ve known Matt for over a decade, so sure thing. I hop in and ask questions later. “Where are we going?” “Let’s go take a look.” It didn’t take a BS degree in BS to know that we were zipping over to the under-construction all-new Quarterdeck Restaurant and Marketplace, right under the lighthouse at Harbour Town. How could I not be excited? If you aren’t familiar, the Quarterdeck, once upon a time, was one of Hilton Head Island’s most iconic restaurants. Positioned perfectly under the lighthouse, it has a deep history with locals and visitors alike. In fact, back in February when the Quarterdeck held its final event, a couple of hundred people gathered to say goodbye and swap 50 or so years’ worth of stories and memories about that building. The wrecking ball was brought in practically the next day, and the building was leveled to the ground. In its place will be a state-of-the-art restaurant and marketplace that is extremely likely to be one of the most popular spots on the island for the next 10-20 years. Wait until you see it. The new building will have two entrances: one for the restaurant, the other for the marketplace. A marketplace/general store will offer fresh seafood for sale as well as handheld bites such as shrimp po’boys and other sandwiches. That will be surrounded by other retail items and a wall of wine. Across the way will be a “Kids’ Zone.” I’m told it will be brightly colored to attract the little ones and will offer 16 flavors of Haagen-Dazs ice cream. There will be a few other sweet bites, but you get the picture: roll in, grab a few scoops, and resume your stroll around the yacht basin. The restaurant itself will be massive—in the

neighborhood of 500 seats—just about double what it was before. When I tell you that every single inch of space has been not only utilized but maximized, there is absolutely no exaggeration there. There will be ground-floor seating—indoor as well as a huge deck space. At the front of the room will be a huge bar with all seating facing the entrance to the basin with the eighteenth green of the Harbour Town Golf Links in the distance. At the top of the stairs, guests will be greeted by an oyster bar. Another smaller bar will be upstairs, but those seats won’t face the water. Instead, the second floor outdoor deck is very likely (especially during Heritage Week) to be the most desired spot in the building, thanks to a sweeping view from the seventeenth green on the left all the way to the Calibogue Sound on the right. I can already tell you this will be Hilton Head Island’s No. 1 spot for a sunset view. Televisions will be tastefully positioned throughout. This isn’t going to be a sports bar, but you will be able to keep tabs on a game if you like. Tucked away in a far corner of the second floor is a room being created for private dining groups. That room will also offer stunning views of the sound with Daufuskie Island in the distance. But perhaps the one thing that jumped out at me most is an outdoor area being built directly under the famous lighthouse with a stunning view of the harbor. My reaction? “Oh, wow. Talk about a perfect spot for a rehearsal dinner,” I said. “We are already booking them,” Matt responded. No one is going to talk menu just yet. We are still roughly five months away from a grand opening. I have heard some whispers that a few of the Quarterdeck favorites will be returning to the menu, which I’m guessing will be relatively simple due to the sheer number of people who they will be expecting to Eat It and Like It at the new Quarterdeck. Especially at the beginning. That’s not to say there won’t be opportunities for a little envelope pushing. Wine dinners? Sure, why not? With those views and the beautiful new building, everything is fair game. If I sound a little more excited than normal about a new restaurant, I am. Like many of you, I have quite a few memories at that spot, going back to my days as a sportscaster for WSAV, covering the golf tournament around the turn of the century. (I always wanted to say that. Just never thought it would apply to myself.) As of November 2021, construction is moving along swimmingly. Look for the doors to swing open at the all-new Quarterdeck Restaurant and Marketplace this spring. And beware of hitchhikers.

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Celebrate Christmas at the Hilton Head Choral Society’s annual “The Sounds of Christmas” concert on Friday, December 10, at 7 p.m., at First Presbyterian Church, 540 William Hilton Parkway. This holiday concert, with full chorus and orchestra, celebrates the joy, the magic, the essence of the season as the Choral Society celebrates its forty-fifth season. This Christmas concert is the beginning of the 2021-2022 season and considered one of the signature events of the holidays for our community and visitors alike. First Presbyterian Church, beautifully adorned for Christmas, will set the stage for an evening of traditional carols, holiday tunes, and the lyrical Christmas Oratorio of French composer Camille Saint-Saens. The full chorus, guest soloists, pipe organ, and orchestra will present an inspiring evening of holiday music. Seating is limited, and proof of vaccination is required. Tickets for “The Sounds of Christmas,” $15-$40, make great gifts and may be purchased online or at the door, if available. Buying tickets in advance is strongly suggested. All seating is reserved. To purchase tickets or for more information, call (843) 341-3818, visit hiltonheadchoralsociety.org, or email tickets@ hiltonheadchoralsociety.org.

StoneWorks recently welcomed two new members to their design sales team at the new Bluffton showroom at 11 Sheridan Park, Suite 3. Cindi Armacost is a professional interior designer with a degree in interior design and more than 30 years of experience. Sydney Egnor joins the StoneWorks team as a sales consultant and will work with new retail clients. Second Helpings is pleased to announce that S. Marcus Tanner has been appointed as its new executive director. Tanner brings extensive leadership, operations management, project and program oversight, team development, and community relations experience to the executive director role.

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This & That

To my loyal clients, I wish to inform you that I am retiring from Salon Salon at the end of this year due to osteoarthritis in my fingers. In my next phase, I will be volunteering and spending more time with my family. I want to thank all of you, past and present faithful clients for your support and friendship over the last 30 years. I will miss all of you very much. I wish you a merry Christmas and a healthy new year. Love and gratitude, Pat Blake

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The Foundation for Educational Excellence recently teamed up with The Peirce Group with Keller Williams of the Lowcountry, which resulted in eight grants awarded to new teachers at Bluffton elementary schools. The $500 grants were given to first- or second-year teachers to enhance the learning experience for the students in their classrooms. This endeavor began with The Peirce Group with Keller Williams of the Lowcountry, local Realtors in Bluffton, wanting to give back to the community. The group held a back-to-school fundraiser that led to a plan with the Foundation to give a grant to a new elementary teacher in the Bluffton area. The Foundation announced the application process and applications were submitted by induction teachers from Bluffton elementary schools. The Peirce Group award for $500 went to Sara Lemus, a first-year fourth grade teacher from River Ridge Academy. After reviewing all the applications, the board of the Foundation felt compelled to provide more grants to teachers who had applied. Additional teachers receiving grants included: Jayme McMichael (River Ridge Academy), Stasha Grooms and Pamela Romero (River Ridgqe Academy), Taylor Behr (Pritchardville), Jessica Wetzel (Pritchardville), Michalle Ruble (M.C. Riley), Jennifer Matthews and Michelle Morrison (Red Cedar), and January Tramuta (Red Cedar).

Hilton Head Christian Academy’s award-winning theater department will present Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol on December 3 and 4 at the school’s performing arts center on its new campus in Bluffton. The classic holiday tale explores themes of redemption, love, and compassion as Ebenezer Scrooge transforms from a miserly, greedy, and lonely man into an empathetic and kind individual. Directed by Michelle McElroy Cox, HHCA theater director, the production features an all-star upper school cast: Charlie Peirce (Scrooge), Dawson Taylor (Bob Cratchit), Christopher Nguyen (Nephew Fred), Harper Krimm (Ghost of Christmas Past), Briana Williams (Ghost of Christmas Present), Millie Gilbreath (Marley), Jack Mau and Annabel Court (Narrators), and many others. McElroy Cox shared, “This timeless Dickens classic brings the spirit of an oldfashioned Christmas to the audience. Our students have worked extremely hard on the production this semester, and we can’t wait to share this Christmas classic with our community.” Showtimes are December 3 at 7 p.m. and December 4 at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 for seniors/students, $15 for adults and can be purchased at www.hhca.org/ achristmascarol.

Wood+Partners Inc., a regional land planning and landscape architecture firm, is excited to announce that they recently received an Award of Excellence and The Frederic B. Stresau Award through the Florida American Society of Landscape Architects for their work on the Captain Leonard Destin Park in Destin, Florida. The Frederic B. Stresau Award is bestowed upon an Award of Excellence winner that best exhibits innovation and design excellence of the profession. C2 MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2021

This & That

The Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce will present Sparkles & Spirits holiday soiree & silent auction from 6-9 p.m., Thursday, December 9 at Burnt Church Distillery. It’s the most wonderful time of the year ... and the chamber has the most wonderful local gifts of the year! From exciting getaways to self-care and other great items, the holiday silent auction is a one-stop-shop for your holiday gifts. Your ticket gets you a flight of spirits from Burnt Church Distillery and delicious food from SERG Restaurant Group. But you don’t need to attend the celebration to bid on items! Bidding opens on December 1 and closes at 9 a.m. on December 13. For tickets and more information, visit HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org.

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Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Bay Street Realty Group is excited to announce the hiring of Gabrielle Horry as Realtor. She is beginning her career in real estate as an assistant to Denise Horry, with a focus on home sales for Forino Homes.

Sea Pines Resort has named Patrick O’Keefe as the new director of tennis. He replaces Job de Boer, who retired in June after 30 years. In his new role, O’Keefe will be responsible for overseeing all tennis operations, including lessons, clinics, tournaments, and camps.

M A Y O R

Hilton Head Island Mayor Photography by M.Kat

A Note from John McCann

THANK YOU, ISLANDERS!

hen I visit New York City and other places, people ask me what Hilton Head Island’s greatest asset is. They always expect me to say golf, tennis or our beaches. In my opinion, it’s the residents who generously give their time and energy to help others and support all the activities that take place around the island. I have had the opportunity to thank some of these individuals and present them with the Mayor’s Honored Islander Award, a recognition program that a former mayor started many years ago. I’m glad to continue this recognition as it draws attention to the magnificent corps of volunteers who live and work here. December honorees include Karen Bittman, Carol Clemens, Mike Kelly, and Mike Rudy. Among many of her activities, Karen has been a loyal office volunteer with the Deep Well Project and participates in the All Saints Church Garden Tour. Carol has been tutoring Hispanic children at the Boys and Girls Club for the last 15 years. She also serves as an interpreter for Hispanic patients at Volunteers in Medicine, teaches genealogy software classes at the Heritage Library and is a docent at the Coastal Discovery Museum. For over 30 years, Mike Kelly has used his cooking skills at sports concession stands for the Gator football program and with a high school booster club. In addition, as a plumber, he has contributed countless hours of service to Deep Well clients. As a volunteer with the Knights of Columbus, Mike Rudy has spearheaded the organization’s annual spaghetti dinner and golf tournament. He lent his expertise to help Palmetto Hall, where he lives, with a security plan for the community. Mike also personally assisted a longtime friend suffering with Parkinson’s Disease until he passed away.

< Bluffton Mayor

In September, we recognized Kathleen Harper, Ronald Farsetti, Dean Roberts, and Rev. Louis Johnson. Kathleen, the Middle Year Program Coordinator at Hilton Head Island Middle School, connects students and the school to the community through arts and volunteerism. She helped start the school’s Junior Interact Club, which gives students an avenue to do service projects. At a time when people were searching for COVID-19 vaccines, Ronald found a way to help residents who had difficulty navigating the appointment system to sign up for shots. Dean volunteered

A Note from Lisa Sulka

M AY O R

UNDERSTANDING ACCOMMODATIONS TAX AND ITS USES

he town gets so many compliments for the awesome events as well as park upgrades. Many of these cannot be accomplished without the use of our Accommodations Tax revenue. Accommodations Tax (ATax) is generated through overnight stays at hotels and other facilities for stays less than 90 days through both the State of South Carolina at two percent and the Town of Bluffton at three percent. On a monthly basis, the taxes collected are remitted to the state and the town, and the ATax funds are used to promote tourism and enhance the town for tourists through advertising, promotion, and providing facilities and services. The law requires that funds be spent primarily in the geographical areas of the municipality in which the funds were generated. Permitted uses for state ATax: • Advertising and Promotion of Tourism • Arts and Cultural Events • Facilities for Civic and Cultural Events • Municipality and County Services • Public Facilities • Tourist Transportation • Waterfront Erosion • Visitors Centers Permitted uses for local ATax: • Tourism-related buildings, including, but not limited to, civic centers, coliseums, and aquariums

Photography by Krisztian Lonyai

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at the Boys and Girls Club and helped with the island’s Juneteenth Celebration, hosted by the Mitchellville Preservation Project. Rev. Johnson, the pastor of the historic Central Oak Grove Baptist Church, cofounded the One Island One Community event, an island-wide celebration held on July fourth. Under his guidance, Central Oak Grove partnered with area grocery stores to distribute food to people who needed it during the pandemic. Generally, we recognize 12 islanders each year, but due to the public health pandemic we were not able to fulfill this quota. Nonetheless, we are grateful for the contributions of these eight amazing individuals. Again, I thank them for their contributions and for a having a true spirit of volunteerism. I also thank Andrew Carmines and Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks for supporting the Honored Islander program with a recognition dinner and making it possible to thank volunteers in a meaningful way. A Note from Lisa Sulka continued • • •

• • •

Tourism-related cultural, recreational, or historic facilities Beach access, renourishment, or other tourism-related lands and water access Highways, roads, streets, bridges, and boat ramps providing access to tourist destinations Advertisements and promotions related to tourism development Water and sewer infrastructure to serve tourism-related demand The operation and maintenance of those items provided in this section, including police, fire protection, emergency medical services, and emergency preparedness operations directly attendant to those facilities. Any such other purpose permitted by

• State law. There are two tests that must be passed to qualify as a tourism-related expense: Must be used to attract and provide for tourists and cannot be used for an item that would normally be provided by the Town of Bluffton. The Town of Bluffton has an advisory committee, Accommodations Tax Advisory Committee (ATAC), which is a state requirement due to receiving more than 50 thousand dollars in revenue. ATAC is made up of seven members with at least two representing the hospitality industry, two from the lodging industry, one to represent cultural organizations, and two at-large to review and make recommendations to Town Council on how ATax funds shall be spent. The ATAC meets on a quarterly basis to review applications and recommend any funding to Town Council. If you are a non-profit and match the above qualifications, then your group can apply for this funding. ATax applications can be found on the Town of Bluffton’s website at townofbluffton.sc.gov/ DocumentCenter/View/464/AccommodationsTax-Application-for-Funds-PDF. Applications are due quarterly by noon on the following days: March 31, June 30, September 30, and December 31. C2 MAGAZINE

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Special thanks to Pete Popovich and Dunes Real Estate for hosting our shoot at 10 Ketch.

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M .

KAT

MUSICIAN: JASON LAPORTE

I S C IANS MU in bathrooms What’s your sign? Aries

Most underrated song that, in your opinion, should be a classic? Any Nick Drake song Biggest compliment you’ve ever gotten from a fan? Kenny Roger’s wife said the way I played “The Gambler” was “nice.” Not sure she was a fan, though. Do I have fans? I have one that I bring when it is hot during the summer. C2 MAGAZINE

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Favorite piece to perform? The songs I wrote for my kids. The one for my youngest is coming, I promise. What do you sing in the shower? I normally don’t because I get to thinking about so much in there. Favorite cereal? Honey Bunches of Oats. I love them honey bunches. At what venue do you most like to perform? If I had to decide … Coast in Sea Pines, simply because it was the very first gig I played after moving here. It brings back good memories, and it’s right on the beach with the most beautiful views. Most requested song at shows? Of all time, “Wagon Wheel,” although “Amie” has suddenly made a comeback here lately. First concert you attended? My parents took me to see Mark Farner of Grand Funk Railroad when I was five or somewhere around that age. I was hooked from then on. Favorite artist? Incubus Place you go to get away from it all? The beach Do you tweet, gram or book? What’s your handle? Tweet? Nope. Snap? Yes! @jlildoor. Gram & book? Yes, for now, @jasonlaportemusic. Who would star as you in the epic retelling of your life on film? Peter Billingsley. For some reason people say I look like him, especially in the movie Elf. First instrument you learned to play? Technically guitar, but I was rockin’ the organ with my grandpa before that. Song you were thrilled to finally master? “So Much To Say,” by Dave Matthews What do you wish you knew more about? God What animal do you most identify with? Cat If you got super famous and had to change your name, what would your new name be? Jason. Literally, just Jason … probably with some fancy sign after it in an attempt to be like Prince. What famous musician would you love to sing a duet with? Jevon Daly 104

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DECEBER 2021 T H U R S D AY S

ALL MONTH LONG ELF THE MUSICAL Arts Center of Coastal Carolina December 7 – January 2, 2022 Amazing music, big dance numbers, and a whole lot of Christmas spirit! www.artshhi.com

EVERY TUESDAY! SEA PINES FARMERS MARKET

FARMERS MARKET AT HONEY HORN

Sea Pines Shopping Center 10am-2pm

Coastal Discovery 9am-1pm

BLUFFTON FARMERS MARKET

FIRST THURSDAYS ART MARKET

Green Street in Old Town Bluffton Every Thursday 12-5pm

Shops at Sea Pines Center 4-6:30pm Meet the Artists of Sea Pines

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE

A SOLDIER’S HOLIDAY

Forsythe Jewelers 10am-7pm Enjoy complimentary gift wrapping with your purchase.

Ft. Mitchel 4-5:30pm $5 per adult, Children are free.

HILTON HEAD ISLAND-BLUFFTON CHAMBER SPARKLES & SPIRITS HOLIDAY SOIREE & SILENT AUCTION Burnt Church Distillery 6-9pm Auction runs December 1-13

South Carolina's only eagles nest has landed on Hilton Head Island! View online (hhilandandtrust. org/eagle-cam) One egg has already been laid!

ALL MONTH LONG

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HOLIDAY LIGHT DISPLAY Mitchelville Freedom Park Begins at dusk each night. Free and open to everyone

HISTORIC SITES OPEN HOUSE Coastal Discovery Museum 1-4pm Free and open to everyone, registration is required.

13 11 WALKING TOUR – HISTORIC CORRIDOR 226 Beach City Road 9:30-11:30am HeritageLib.org/ historicholidays

S AT U R DAY S HOLIDAY TUNES! Sing Christmas Carols with Zach and Ben each Saturday December 4th, 11th and 18th Coligny Center Stage 1pm - 3pm

SANTA! Every Saturday in December! December 4th, 11th and 18th Coligny Center Stage 1pm - 3pm

HOLIDAY LIGHTS AT SHELTER COVE TOWNE CENTRE! Enjoy the festive lights through out the center all season long! The beautiful 28’ decorated Christmas tree will also be in the park. Great for holiday picture taking…drive through or stroll through for a great walkable experience! www. sheltercovetownecentre.com/events.

26 Happy National Candy Cane Day!

VISIT THE SANDBOX CHILDREN’S MUSEUM 18A Pope Ave. Hilton Head thesandbox.org.

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